This past Sunday's PARADE Magazine had a poll on "What America Cares About" and, not surprisingly, "Animal welfare" came in fourth as something we would spend money on, if we had it. What people who took the poll said they would spend part of $100,000 on if they had it were, "Food and shelter for the needy" (close to $16k); "Research to cure disease" (just over $14k); "Disaster Relief" (at about $9300); and finally, "Animal Welfare" (at almost $9K).
It's encouraging to see Americans showing support for our animal friends, including wildlife as well as pets, I believe. The article says, "'Public service' has become more than a phrase or a school requirement in our country -- it's now a way of life for Americans of all ages."
We know that's true - giving back to the pet community is a major reason BlogPaws exists. It was heartening to see that our pets and other animals fit in the top 5 - as groups we care about and that get not only our attention, but our dollars. As those who are already registered for BlogPaws 2010 know - we're giving a portion of our sponsorship and attendee dollars to two charities or shelters (including rescues) nominated by you, our attendees.
We want to serve our pet friends, both the "hooman ones" and the furry, fluffy, feathery or leathery, kind, by taking our lead from your input, which which is part of the registration process. Small local shelters/rescues need our help more than ever. We need to have your thoughts on who should receive this donation - by March 15th, no later. We have a lot of work to do behind the scenes between March 15th and the conference, so, it's important that those of you planning to attend, contribute your thoughts on this issue, by the 15th.
Don't wait, if you're planning to attend. Get your room now, register for the conference now, join the conversation on which shelter/rescue will receive our donation dollars (which are also your donation dollars). If you're coming to BlogPaws and as eager to meet all the pet people and bloggers already on board, as we are, register today and book your room, at least! Don't forget that you'll meet the sponsors face-to-face, and learn valuable lessons on how to improve your blog and social media focus.
In the event you win the Sweepstakes (which you can still enter by clicking the link at the top of our homepage), we'll work out the details of making sure you receive everything in the prize package.
C'mon now... you know you want to meet Romeo's staff (Caroline Golon) in person. And, Wabby Wibby's pet-parents - Yvonne and Tom... we'll all be there. We want to meet YOU!
Love my dogs. So much to live for yet they are the highlight of my day.
Being a professional dog trainer and teaching people how to communicate with their dogs as well as starting a running program for beginners to run with their dogs has been so incredibly rewarding for me and so many dog owners.
Go out and have some fun with your dog.
Posted by: K9 Coach | 03/10/2010 at 09:46 AM